5 Reasons Why I Won’t Quit My Day Job (Right Now)

I’ve noticed a trend lately of Influencers quitting their day job. Most of the time they share a story about how they’ve been planning to do it for a while and finally got the courage to quit. Others seem to have made the decision sporadically. I find inspiration in these announcements as I hope to one day be able to quit my day job. However, I’ve also noticed lots of Influencers discussing their financial struggles and plans to rejoin the work force, and this gives me a reality check. As Influencers we sometimes don’t realize how much we really influence the decisions of others. I don’t want y’all randomly quitting your job and regretting it. So I decided to share some reasons why I wont quit my day job anytime soon, to give you a view from the other side of the table.

Financial Stability

It’s said that most millionaires have at least seven streams of income. I’d love to be a millionaire one day. But in this current moment what I want most is financial stability. Although I do have multiple streams of income I have to admit that I’m not financially stable. This is not information that I share often with others because it’s quite embarrassing for me. But as I talk to others more I realize that I am not alone and there’s nothing to be embarrassed about. This realization has helped me to be more transparent and share my financial truth, in hopes of making others feel more comfortable about the money conversation. Even with multiple streams of income there are times when things are a little rough. I’m also carrying debt at the moment. As long as I have debt and have to worry about money, then I won’t be comfortable with cancelling any streams of income. Especially my main source which is consistent pay. Being an Influencer/Content Creator doesn’t bring in consistent income. Nor does being an MUA & Hair Stylist. This is my main reason why I won’t quit my day job anytime soon.

Lack of a Support System

I am currently single and a single mom. I live alone with my child. Meaning I am the breadwinner and cover all expenses in my home. No roommates or husband/boyfriend to share the bills. Although I was taught that even if you have someone to share expenses you should make sure that you’re able to cover them alone in case of emergency. I also cover all of my personal expenses and the majority of expenses for my son. The cost of living in NYC is hella high. If I come up short there is no one there to cover the slack. Although I have family there’s not many people that I’d call on in a financial emergency as I’m usually the go to when others need help. The idea of not being able to pay my bills scares me. So I have to do my best to make sure that I don’t come up short. I usually don’t have to ask anyone for anything thank God, and I’d like to keep it that way.

My Child

I’m a single mom as I mentioned earlier. When my son needs something I make sure he gets it. He’s sixteen, 6’1″ and almost 200 lbs. Clothes are more expensive now. And let’s not even talk about food. Teens will eat you out of house and home. They’re like bottomless pits. Aside from providing shelter, clothing and food, I enjoy being able to provide my son with experiences. We go out on mom & son dates regularly and I try to plan a vacation at least once a year. You can see some of our trips here. My son is currently a Junior in High School. Senior year is expensive. College is extremely costly. I’m not trying to take a leap of Faith and quit my day job when I know my expenses are about to increase. If anything I’m looking to add more streams of income.

Benefits & Perks

When I go on vacation I put all work aside. Whatever it is can wait until I get back. That’s because I know I will still get paid since paid vacation is a benefit of my day job. Along with paid sick leave. When I don’t feel well I stay my behind home. I even take mental health days when necessary. I may use that time at home to get other work done that doesn’t require me to leave my bed. But I don’t have to drag myself into the office because I’ll get paid regardless. When myself or my son gets sick I don’t have to pay a dime for the doctor. Or for medicine to help us get well. Or dental work. If God forbid either of us were to get sick for an extended period of time, my benefits will allow me to still receive a portion of my pay if I have to take off work.

If I decided to have another child (not in my plans) I’d get paid maternity leave. I have a Retirement Plan. I even have tuition benefits. A discount on my phone bill. Access to discounts for everything from movie tickets to amusement parks and hotels. These things may not seem all that important… until you no longer have them. I’m not willing to walk away from these benefits and perks easily. Especially when losing some (such as healthcare) will increase my expenses significantly.

I’m Not Ready

I quit my job in my head every single day. Sometimes a few times a day. But after careful consideration I’ve realized that in reality I’m simply not ready to quit my day job. If I’m going to struggle financially by cutting off that source of income then I’m not doing it. It would be irresponsible. Especially when I know that I have a child that depends on me. I don’t want to be a burden and ask anyone else for money. I don’t want to be afraid to get sick because I’ll lose pay or can’t afford to visit the doctor. Aside from the occasional struggle periods I live a pretty comfortable life. We have a roof over our heads and we never go to bed hungry. We’re afforded social outings and vacations. I’m not exactly where I want to be but I’m working on it. In the meantime I don’t wish to make things harder on myself.

Would you consider quitting your day job right now?

Erica

When I’m not hunting down the latest and greatest beauty products, beating a face or lacing a do, you can find me roaming the streets of NYC in my stilettos looking for the next best restaurant. Or in the kitchen trying to outdo myself from the last time.

Excellent read, Erica!! I am a single mom of a son also and I can truly relate. I too believe it is important to create multiple streams of income. Thanks for being transparent and sharing the other side!